noun

1. A protective layer over a body, vehicle, or other object intended to deflect or diffuse damaging forces.

2. A natural form of this kind of protection on an animal's body.

3. Metal plate, protecting a ship, military vehicle, or aircraft.

Synonyms: carapace, chitin, horn, body armor, body armour, chain mail, mail, plate

verb

1. To equip something with armor or a protective coating or hardening.

2. To provide something with an analogous form of protection.